Introduction to solution polymerization
Solution polymerization is a process in which monomers and initiators (catalysts) are dissolved in a suitable solvent for polymerization. The solvent is generally an organic solvent, or it can be water, depending on the nature of the monomer, initiator (or catalyst), and polymer produced. If the polymer formed is soluble in the solvent, the polymerization is a homogeneous reaction, which is a typical solution polymerization; if the polymer formed is not soluble in the solvent, the polymerization is a heterogeneous reaction, called precipitation polymerization, or Slurry polymerization.